An engagement band is one of the most personal purchases you and your partner will ever make. It marks a promise, reflects your personal style, and is often something you never take off. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic oval solitaire, a bold bezel style that begs to be talked about, or something totally unexpected (like a chunky gold band à la Dua Lipa), today’s engagement rings are all about choice.
That freedom is exactly why the best lab-grown engagement rings are having such a moment; they offer the same brilliance and symbolism as traditional stones, with added benefits that resonate with today’s buyers. They have quickly become a go-to choice for many couples who want meaningful rings without compromising on style, size, or budget. Plus, with all the many options on the market, these lab-grown diamonds are also great for everyday wear outside of an engagement to add some dazzle to any everyday look. (We can’t think of a better treat-yourself purchase.)
The best lab-grown engagement rings, at a glance
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Lab-grown diamonds may feel like the newest It diamond on the scene—but what are they, really? The stones actually stretch back to the 1850s, when scientists first began experimenting with creating synthetic gems like rubies. Fast-forward to today, and they’ve become one of the most sought-after (and most debated) choices for engagement rings. The actual makeup of lab-grown diamonds is the same as natural diamonds; they’re just formed in different conditions, one deep within the earth, and the other under carefully controlled laboratory conditions.
Between the sparkle, the price point, and the environmental considerations, it’s totally normal to feel a little confused about what’s fact, what’s hype, and, in the end, what’s right for you. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you. Below, we break down everything you need to know, from trustworthy brands to pricing considerations, and share our editors’ picks for the best lab-grown engagement rings worth adding to your shortlist—and sending to that someone special. (Hint, hint).
Best lab-grown engagement rings under $500
Perfect for dainty diamond lovers, these under-$500 rings from our favorite affordable jewelry brands may be smaller in size, but they still deliver serious sparkle for forward-thinking brides. Many styles double as everyday rings, not just engagement options, and even work beautifully as chic pinky or stacking rings.
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Best lab-grown engagement rings under $1,000
A one-carat stone is officially within reach, thanks to the explosion in lab-grown diamond options. From delicate pavé bands to eye-catching settings on thicker gold bands, this price range offers standout designs that feel luxe without the splurge. Turn to Quince for jaw-dropping deals, Brilliant Earth for unique designs, and Pandora for a little of both.
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Best lab-grown engagement rings under $2,000
Double-stone settings, modern halos, pear shapes, and unexpected proportions are having a moment, and you’ll find them here. At this price point, you can get a little bolder with bands and stone shapes, all while staying in a comfortable price range. Plus, many of these styles can stand alone as cocktail rings or statement jewelry, making them a worthy and versatile investment even outside of a marriage proposal.
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Best lab-grown engagement rings over $2,000
When your budget is higher than $2,000, lab-grown diamonds open up a whole new world of sizes, shapes, and settings. Go bigger, bolder, or more intricate with statement stones and detailed flourishes that would traditionally cost months to save for. These elegant picks are sky’s-the-limit showstoppers worthy of such a huge milestone.
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All your lab-grown engagement ring questions, answered
Why are lab-grown diamonds are growing in popularity?
Lab-grown diamonds have been steadily growing in popularity over the past few years because they offer the exact same sparkle and durability as natural diamonds, but at a significantly lower price. They also appeal to shoppers who care about sustainability and ethical sourcing, since not every natural stone comes with transparency.
Why might you opt for lab-grown diamonds over natural diamonds?
“Price is usually the biggest factor, because the client can now choose their desired cut and clarity without having to be held back by the cost,” says Joseph Falco, Jr., a gemologist and fine jewelry shop owner known for his custom engagement rings, who notes that many of his private clients are now choosing lab-grown diamonds over natural ones. “Sustainability and ethical concerns play a huge role, too,” since natural diamonds come with a complicated history and potential human-rights concerns. At the end of the day, though, it often comes down to personal taste and what the client wants stylistically and within their budget. “You can really get more for your money here,” Falco says.
What is the difference between a natural and a lab-grown diamond?
Instead of forming under intense heat and pressure underground over billions of years, lab-grown diamonds are made using technology that replicates those same natural conditions, often in a matter of weeks or months. According to Falco, aside from the way they’re created or mined, the only distinctions come down to tiny chemical variations and the way the atomic lattice (a diamond’s internal crystal framework) is formed. These differences are so subtle that they can only be identified by experts like the Gemological Institute of America. To the naked eye, there’s no difference at all.